So ummm I’m 18 months in to my transition and I am trying to remain strong……

The two main problems I have had are “moisture retention” and”breakage” both quite hard to tackle and the second one being very serious. If any of you ladies are in a long transition like me here are  FIVE tips to help..

1. Deep Conditioning – This needs to be done once a week as it is a good way to get moisture into your hair. You can incorporate some protein into your treatment maybe once a month or longer. If you are protein sensitive then try using something like coconut milk or avocado these are light proteins. (check out my winter deep conditioning post) 

https://stylisoulstar.wordpress.com/2012/11/16/home-made-winter-deep-conditioner

 

2. Protective Styling – Your processed ends are very sensitive and fragile so the less you manipulate your hair the better. Styles that have your ends tucked away will be great for your hair in this time. Try twist/flat twist for a week or two or you could do buns ( try to alternate where you tie the hair band), weave or wig. I prefer to do a style that lasts say a week as I can’t go too long in a protective style, you just have to find what works for you.

3. Trims – Getting regular trims every say 4-8 weeks will help keep the ends in shape as much as possible, trims can also help minimise the breakage. Also when it is time to say bye bye to the straight ends there will be less to cut. Remember the ends of you hair are the oldest and most fragile so be gentle and treat them with love.

4. Moisturising and Sealing – So moisture is key to keeping your hair hydrated as if you let it become dry it will become prone to breakage easier. Even though most of the time moisture will evaporate from your hair, there are things you can do to slow down the process. On wash day this is the time to get all the moisture you can in your hair it sets the base, so when you DC (deep condition) then when you apply your leave in and oil this will help to lock in the moisture. I prefer to do this when some of the water is gone from my hair as it is not very porous.  If I am to apply products when my hair has soaked up lots of water it will not penetrate my hair. So I usually put a t-shirt on my head for 5 mins then my hair should be damp and then I apply my products.

Moisturise daily this will help the hair to be hydrated and easier to maintain and manipulate, but pay attention to your hair as you don’t want to overload with products. So you may just want to mist your hair with water and the apply an oil like castor oil or coconut oil.

5. Time, determination and PATIENCE – I can not stress enough that the only thing that will get you through will be time, determination and PATIENCE….

I have vowed to transition for two years as I didn’t want to do the big chop etc and I am making the most of this time. Take the time to research, learn and experiment see what your hair does and doesn’t like. Also don’t just do a healthier hair journey let it be a healthier way of life so you hair, skin,diet and the person you are inside. If you don’t have the time and patience you won’t make it, I have my days where I just want to give up and grab those scissors but that is only a moment in time. If you mind is set on the task you will do it…

Some pictures below of my transition so far….

A natural hair journey is not just about hair, its about learning more about how your body works, how to live healthier and how to love yourself. If you have hair up to your ear or down to your bum just learnt about and love what you have.

xLBx